Arsenal v Wigan Match Preview: Premier League Predictions

Premier League Preview for Arsenal v Wigan along with Predictions for the matches on week 38 of the EPL. Follow up each match with results and video highlights posted later in the week. You can also check out the weekly EPL TV Schedule.

This is a must win match for both teams at this point, though it’s for two completely different reasons. Arsenal are looking for a win to stay in the running for a Champions League place. Wigan need to win to be able to stay up in the Premier League.

Arsenal come into Tuesday’s match in fifth place on 67 points, just two behind Tottenham. A win would put them in prime position to finish in fourth place needing only the win Tuesday and a win on the weekend. They will be without Olivier Giroud to lead their line, with him out serving his last match ban for his red card. Other than Giroud they have a full strength squad.

Their performance on Saturday was inspired and exciting to watch. They continued to attack and push City until the very end. It is just this sort of mentality they will need to take with them to the Emirates.

Even more than their attacking ability was how they solidified their back line and kept City from scoring. Alcaraz’s return seemed to make a huge difference for them. There is a slim chance that Jean Beausejour could also return on Tuesday which would be a boost for them, if he’s fit enough.

My prediction is for a Wigan win. It is going to be a difficult match for them, probably more so than the FA Cup Final, but they do have it in them. They did go to the Emirates last season and beat Arsenal in a must win match around this time.

Wigan absolutely need to win. Anything other than a win and they are relegated. I want them to win simply to increase the drama of the last day of the season. Not only would it mean that the relegation battle continues, but also because it would mean the battle for fourth would be even closer on the final day.